Have Gone or Have Been?
- Sorina Graur
- Aug 6, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 25
In English, the present perfect tense of "go" can be a bit tricky because it splits into two forms: "have been" and "have gone." Each one paints a unique picture.
Have Been
Think of it this way:
"Have been" is like a round-trip ticket. You’ve gone somewhere and you’re now back to tell the tale.
When to Use It:
To talk about places you’ve visited and returned from.
To share experiences from trips you’ve completed.
Examples:
"I have been to Paris. The Eiffel Tower was stunning!" (You went to Paris and you’re back now.)
"She has been to the new Italian restaurant downtown. The pasta was to die for!" (She went, enjoyed it, and came back.)
Have Gone
"Have gone" is like a one-way ticket. The person has left and is still at the destination.
When to Use It:
When someone is currently at the place they traveled to.
To talk about ongoing trips or activities.
Examples:
"John has gone to the store. He’ll be back soon." (John is still at the store.)
"My parents have gone to Paris for the summer. They’ll return in September." (Your parents are living it up in Paris right now.)
How to Remember the Difference
Here’s a little trick:
If the person is still there, think “gone and not back.” Use "have gone."
If the person has returned, think “been there, done that.” Use "have been."
Test Your Knowledge with Our Fun Quiz!
Feeling confident? Why not put your new skills to the test with our interactive quiz! Click the link below and see how well you understand the difference between "have been" and "have gone."
Keep the Learning Going
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Happy studying!
